Birthdays are a great time to reflect on your life. I have been reflecting quite a bit over the last couple of weeks on my life so far and what the future holds. As they say, “I’ve come a long way, babe.” I have experienced much in the way of triumphs and struggles and made it through some pretty impossible odds.

In all my reflections of late, one theme has repeatedly come to mind- “Burn the boats.” Perhaps you know the story behind that phrase. But in case you don’t, here’s a brief overview.

The phrase “burn the boats” is generally attributed to Spanish conquistador Herman Cortes when he conquered Mexico in 1519. However, it was a military strategy long before that.  Alexander the Great, arguably the world’s greatest empire builder, employed this tactic thousands of years before Cortes.

After arriving on the shores of Persia, this great military commander ordered his men to burn the ships. There would be no retreat. The Persian troops far outnumbered Alexander’s men.  The message was loud and clear: Be victorious or die trying.

Obviously, it was excellent motivation for Alexander’s men since they came away from that battle victorious. So, how in the heck does all that apply to me today and why should you care?

I’ll tell you why.  Just a few short months ago, I became physically unable to go back to the career I have worked hard at for over 13 years. During those years, I took care of many people from various walks in life struggling with issues that were hard to overcome.  I’m not going to stop now.

I returned to my first love: writing. What I saw broke my heart. Many writers are struggling to pay their bills, resigned to the starving artist mode of thinking. Even worse is the vast number of content mills taking advantage by offering such low wages that it leads some to believe that they would be better off flipping burgers instead. My friends, say it isn’t so!

That’s where Freelance Writers Academy comes in. I created this place on the Internet so writers can come and get the real help they deserve.  I’ve also been blessed to have a great band of people who have decided to help me and other struggling writers as well for which I am truly thankful.

It’s time for us freelance writers to stand up and start earning what we deserve.  Now that’s a cause worth fighting for! The candles on my cake won’t be the only thing burning. The flames of resolve and commitment to my fellow writers to help them live the life they have also dreamt about will be burning brighter than ever.  And as I blow out those candles, I will imagine the boats of life as it once was burning behind me.

The only question I have is: Who’s with me? If you’re struggling, now is the best time to become a member of the Freelance Writers Academy. I will fight for you tooth and nail. If you are ready to stand and fight, got to freelancewritersacademy.com/meet-our-experts and register for our membership site waiting list by putting your name and email address in the boxes located in the sidebar on the page. I will send you all the information about our membership program that is loaded with tons of stuff that will help you get started. I could think of no greater birthday gift than to know you are with me in this cause.

Are you ready to burn the boats in your life? I am. I can smell the smoke already.

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